- Pope Francis died on 21 April 2025
- The new process to select a new pope has begun in Italy
- Reportedly, Ralph Fiennes’ Conclave film is being used for guidance on the matter
After the death of Pope Francis on 21 April, the search for the new pope has begun. Catholic Cardinals may be turning to Conclave for guidance. The 2024 film starring Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence interprets the ancient rituals and traditions of selecting a new pope. In the film, the pope dies of a heart attack, so the College of Cardinals gathers to begin the process for his funeral and a new pope.
In the movie, Lawrence uncovers secrets and conspiracies in the halls of the Vatican that could change the church forever. The film made a modest $119 million at the global box office.
Read more: Donald Trump wants to be the next pope
If it was not a huge moneymaker, it’s useful to those in the Sistine Chapel to help select the new pope.
Conclave – how could it help select a new pope?
The selection for the next pope starts on 7 May, and because of this, some of the cardinals are reportedly watching the film to help them before the process. Fiennes’ film has proved helpful, as one cleric told Politico that “some have watched it in the cinema”.
Though the film relies mainly on interpretation, clerics have called it accurate, according to Politico. Because not all participants in the conclave have much experience, the movie could give guidance on how to act and prepare for the important process.
Many of the 133 cardinals traveling to Rome lack experience because Pope Francis appointed them, and they have not yet participated in a conclave or become well-versed in the process.
Like the film, the conclave itself can also become a place of scandal. In the past, allegations of abuse have surfaced, and reports have exposed lobbying and cardinals engaging in behavior considered sinful.
What does Cardinal Lawrence deal with in the film?
In the film, Cardinal Lawrence has the task of running the conclave. Therefore, he is embroiled in a scandal himself. While he doesn’t directly cover up allegations of sexual abuse, he is aware of it.
His character grapples with his moral standing and the corruption present in the church. Additionally, he realizes there are multiple political struggles within the organization, and some want the power rather than what is best for the church.
However, as the process begins in real-time, it will be interesting to compare it to the film and see how much Conclave has influenced how cardinals approach it.
